Islamic Art Museum

The Islamic Art Museum (22
Agion Asomaton & Dipylou,
Keramikos, 210 3251311) of Athens is a must.
It showcases one of the best collections
of Islamic art in Europe and it is spread
in two buildings, a two-storey and a
three-storey neoclassical mansion. About
10,000 artefacts of the early Islamic and
Ottoman periods have found their place
in this modern museum. Its chambers are
filled with artwork such as Iznik ceramics,
wooden doors, prayer carpets, jars, bowls
with intricate designs and bright colors.
The first two levels trace Islamic art from
the 7th -16th century, while the fourth
level exhibits Iranian artwork of the Qajar
period. The ceramic collection is one of
the best of its kind, with beautiful items
of the Fatimid era, detailed jewellery and
calligraphic inscriptions. Unique pieces
like the silk garments, brass chests, carved
wooden doors and tiles are major crowdpleasers,
as well as the reconstruction of a
17th century interior of a Cairo mansion on
the third floor. While reconstructing the
old museum building, part of the ancient
wall of Athens as well as a tomb were
uncovered in the foundations. They’ve all
been preserved and visitors can see them
at the lower lever.
28 ATHENSGUIDE

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